The Richard McSpadden Scholarship for Advanced Pilot Training

Helps pay for advanced training such as tailwheel, upset recovery or other advanced ratings.

From AOPA Foundation

Amount: VariesThe page says quantity and amount will vary and lists this among examples of past scholarships.
Deadline: Dec 31, 2026Rounds close Dec 31, 2026, Jun 30, 2027
Who can apply: Residents of the United States and District of Columbia, Canada, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin IslandsMembership: AOPA member
Where the money works: Depends on the awardFunds come on a prepaid expense card.

Requirements

You must be a current AOPA member.
The award is for advanced training such as tailwheel, upset recovery or other advanced ratings.
Flight training has to be finished within 12 months of the award.
Upload your transcript, references and other documents before the deadline.

How to apply

Create an account in the AOPA Foundation application system, since your AOPA login does not work there.
Complete the one general application so you are matched to every scholarship you qualify for.
Upload your transcript, references and other required documents.
Submit before the round closes, because late or incomplete applications are not accepted.

Apply on their site

Opens AOPA Foundation's own page. We never host an application.

Checked Oct 7, 2026 against AOPA Foundation's page. We list scholarships we think are relevant for our program, not every one out there. Deadlines and amounts can change, so confirm them there before you apply.

All pilot scholarships How to pay for flight school

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